The Year 10 production of Great Expectations was a
haunting portrayal of Charles Dickens’s classic novel
which centres on Pip, an orphan whose character and
life changes when he receives a large sum of money.
G reat
E x pectations
The staging evoked the eerie atmosphere of the
north Kent marshes. The beginning of the production
was particularly intriguing, with a number of actors
wandering round the stage playing instruments which,
accompanied by the student-led orchestra at the
top of the Sackville Theatre, created a chilling and
ominous tone.
The live music added another dimension to the play
as the audience was thrown into the world of Pip
and felt like they played a part in his journey. While
the skilful performance of the student musicians
contributed to the foreboding atmosphere, their
presence on stage also often allowed a comic touch,
which helped the play remain somewhat positive and
humorous. This contrast served to make the chilling
scenes even more powerful.
The transitions between the actors playing Pip at
different ages (Olivia Scott-Smith, Frederick Spence
and Andrew Stuart) highlighted how his personality
and character changed as a result of his unorthodox
relationships with both Miss Havisham (Sasha
Ecclestone and Alice McQuail) and Estella (Ana Deeley
and Emily Ring). Each transition was unique and
often featured a type of meta-theatre whereby both
actors were on stage, and the transfer of the role
was conducted in the presence of the audience.
This was particularly clever and interesting because
it emphasised the effect of wealth and class on
Pip. Each ‘new’ Pip retained some of the younger
character’s qualities but brought a new and unique
energy to the role.
Perhaps most impressive was the successful way
in which this Year 10 company of 14-year-old actors
evoked the incredibly ominous nature of this work.
The consistent composure and maturity of the
performers belied their age. I cannot wait to see
how these actors progress in years to come.
Hannah Saint, Lower Sixth
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DRAMA REVIEW
SEVENOAKS SCHOOL 2017-2018
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